Summary
Rina Gonoi, a former soldier in Japan's Self-Defense Forces, reached a settlement with the Japanese government and a former colleague after being sexually assaulted during her service. The case gained international attention for highlighting sexual violence issues in Japan's military ranks. Three of her ex-colleagues were convicted of assault in a separate criminal trial.
Key Facts
- Rina Gonoi was sexually assaulted while serving in Japan's Self-Defense Forces.
- She settled her civil case with the government for 1.6 million yen, but did not receive compensation from a former colleague.
- In a separate criminal trial, three former soldiers were found guilty of assault but received suspended sentences, meaning no jail time.
- Gonoi's case was notable in Japan, where it's uncommon for sexual violence victims to speak out.
- She brought attention to her case by posting a video on YouTube in 2022.
- Over 100,000 people signed a petition for the defense ministry to investigate her claims.
- The defense ministry's investigation uncovered over 1,000 other sexual harassment reports in the Self-Defense Forces.
